GPD reports huge surge in crime

From burglaries to vehicle breakins and strong armed robberies, the Guam Police Department reports a significant spike in crime the last three months.

How can you keep from falling victim? In a press conference today GPD gives the community tips on how to keep safe.

Don't be an easy target, warned acting chiedf of police Joseph Cruz. "We want to urge the public to take those extra steps to protect their property, protect their homes, protect their businesses, and keep themselves safe as they go through their lives," he said. From the months of April through June, Cruz reports a spike in crime in Tumon-Tamuning as well as outlying areas of Dededo. Specifically, over 40 cases of burglary, vehicle breakins, purse snatchings, and thefts are currently under investigation with arrests made earlier this week in connection to a handful of these crimes.

"More arrests are pending as these cases continue to develop themselves. We continue to solicit the help of the public in helping us solve these crimes and helping us apprehend these individuals committing these crimes," he explained.

GPD has observed rental cars are most susceptible to breakins which is why they're working with rental companies to remove stickers and other indicators. Both visitors and residents are also advised to take note of their surroundings wherever they go and not to leave valuables exposed in their vehicles. Cruz said, "I think vigilance pays a very big part of that. Just taking those extra steps knowing that these individuals are out and about taking the extra vigilance to take note of these things and report them to the officer when they come to handle those cases."

If you do find yourself in a dangerous situation, GPD's best advice - don't fight it. "Again, it's a matter of your safety. Obviously everyone has the inherent right to defend themselves, to protect themselves. But no purse, no wallet, no physical object is worth anybody killing themselves over or getting hurt over. As a general rule of thumb and is demanding this and tries to snatch your purse, let the purse go, report the incident and we'll investigate it. And work diligently to solve the crime," he said.

If you have any information on any of these cases, you are urged to call Guam Crimestoppers at 477-HELP (4357).

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